Posted on 15 February 2026:
Sanskriti: Strengthening Roots Through Wisdom and Dialogue
In a world where traditions often wrestle with modernity, the PRE-CONVENTION Lecture Series: Nari to Narayani offers a luminous space to rediscover balance.
On February 11, 2026, the PRE-CONVENTION Lecture Series: Nari to Narayani unfolded its fourth day with the theme “Sanskriti — Strengthening Roots.”
Held virtually, the session became a memorable dialogue on cultural resilience, women’s empowerment, and the harmony between tradition and progress.
Nari to Narayani: Echoes of Strength and Transformation
The evening was graced by the presence of three distinguished speakers, each weaving threads of wisdom into the larger tapestry of empowerment.
Among them, Smt Nandini Sinha, renowned Kathak exponent, choreographer, and social activist, offered a deeply resonant perspective on how the performing arts transcend aesthetics to become instruments of social transformation. Her reflections illuminated the power of dance not merely as performance, but as a language of individuality, resilience and empowerment.
Through her narrative, Smt Sinha highlighted the challenges faced by women in their everyday lives, and how art becomes a medium to confront and transcend them. The theme “Nari to Narayani” unfolded as a tribute to the Mother Divine Durga, symbolizing versatility and strength. In her discourse, she emphasized the multifaceted roles of women—guardians of morality, torchbearers of ethics and embodiments of empowerment. Drawing upon history, she invoked the inspiring examples of Prabhabatiji, mother of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, and the legendary Ahilyabai Holkar, whose lives stand as luminous testaments to courage and leadership.
The reflections of Dr Pritha Bhattachajee, Associate Professor of Environmental Science at the University of Calcutta and Dr Urvashi Srivastava, eminent educationist, writer and literary critic added depth to the evening, illuminating the many dimensions of womanhood and its vital role in shaping society. Their insights reminded participants that empowerment is not confined to theory—it is lived through tradition, ethics and the courage to transform.
This dialogue became more than an academic exchange; it was a celebration of the enduring spirit of women, bridging the wisdom of the past with the aspirations of the present. In its essence, the session affirmed that women are not only nurturers but architects of transformation, embodying the timeless journey from Nari to Narayani.
Guided by Ms Soma Ray of Kolkata Nivedita Shakti, the session concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks and prarthana by Shibani Chatterjee of Rashtra Sevika Samiti, reminding participants that intellectual exchange is most meaningful when rooted in gratitude and devotion.
Organized by Bharatiya Vidvat Parishat, Rashtra Sevika Samiti Dakshin Banga, Mahila Sahabhagita, Bharat Vikas Parishad West Bengal, and Kolkata Nivedita Shakti, the event stood as a testament to collective effort in strengthening cultural identity.
